As transatlantic security shifts, Europe stands at a crossroads: Can it achieve strategic autonomy through a European army? With diminishing U.S. commitment, European leaders face three critical dilemmas—whether to complement or replace national militaries, adopt intergovernmental or supranational governance, and mandate participation or rely on coalitions. This article delves into the historical, legal, and political challenges of European defence integration, exploring realistic pathways to creating a credible military force. If Europe fails to act now, its diplomatic leverage and security stability could erode irreversibly.
